Tips

Have we already gotten your creative juices flowing? If not, free free to read some creative tips, or learn some tips for filming:

Camera:
Ensure the proper settings have been set before filming. Have you checked focus, aperture setting (how much light is let in the lens), and white balance (which affects the color temperature of your picture)?

If filming on a Flip camera, iPhone, or Blackberry, please use the standard video settings.

Lighting:
Being conscious of lighting will give your film a more professional look. We ask that you attempt to adequately light your subject matter as best you can.

Three-point lighting is not required but preferred for interviews.

Shooting:
Use a tripod. This gives your footage a steady and seamless look. Of course, if the story calls for fluid camera work, do not hesitate. All we ask is for it not to resemble The Blair Witch Project.

For our own editing purposes, we ask that your interviews include a medium shot (see below).

Editing:
Check your computer for already available editing software including Movie Maker (for PC) or iMovie (for Mac). If you don’t have them, trial versions are available on the manufacturer’s website.

Sound:
Poor audio can break an otherwise good film. Keep microphones as close as possible to subject matter. Avoid loud ambient sound, which can come from an air conditioner, extra crew, outside traffic, etc.

And don’t forget, copyrighted material and copyrighted sounds/songs will be removed.

Need some extra creative ideas? Get them here!